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  1. AP Pre Calculus
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Define a vertical asymptote.

A vertical line that the graph of a function approaches but never touches, where the function's value goes to infinity (or negative infinity).

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Define a vertical asymptote.

A vertical line that the graph of a function approaches but never touches, where the function's value goes to infinity (or negative infinity).

What is a rational function?

A function of the form r(x)=p(x)q(x)r(x) = \frac{p(x)}{q(x)}r(x)=q(x)p(x)​, where p(x)p(x)p(x) and q(x)q(x)q(x) are polynomial functions.

Define the multiplicity of a zero.

The number of times its corresponding factor appears in the polynomial.

What is a 'hole' in a rational function?

A point where both the numerator and denominator of a rational function are zero. It is a removable discontinuity.

Explain how denominator zeros relate to vertical asymptotes.

If x=ax = ax=a makes the denominator q(x)q(x)q(x) zero and the numerator p(x)p(x)p(x) non-zero, then there's a potential vertical asymptote at x=ax = ax=a.

What happens if a zero appears in both the numerator and denominator?

It might indicate a 'hole' in the graph rather than a vertical asymptote.

Explain the impact of multiplicity on vertical asymptotes.

If the multiplicity of a zero in the denominator is greater than in the numerator, there's a vertical asymptote. Higher difference means faster approach to infinity.

Describe the behavior of a function near a vertical asymptote.

As xxx approaches a vertical asymptote from the left or right, the function approaches either positive or negative infinity.

How do limits relate to vertical asymptotes?

One-sided limits approaching a vertical asymptote will tend towards ∞\infty∞ or −∞-\infty−∞.

What are the differences between vertical asymptotes and holes?

Vertical Asymptotes: Occur when the denominator is zero, and the numerator is non-zero. Function approaches infinity. | Holes: Occur when both numerator and denominator are zero. Represent removable discontinuities.